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The Surprising Benefits of Fish Sauce

Nước mắm is not just a staple seasoning in Vietnamese cuisine, but also a versatile liquid gold. Its uses extend beyond the kitchen, as it can be a powerful cleaning agent, odor neutralizer, and flavor enhancer. But the true magic lies in its ability to heal; when used correctly, it becomes a potent medicine with numerous health benefits.

Administrator

11 July, 2024

Odor Removal

It may sound unusual, but fish sauce is not just a seasoning. It can also help remove odors from offal, tripe, and chicken giblets.

To use: Mix fish sauce with warm water, and soak the food for 10-15 minutes. Gently squeeze the food to help remove slime and improve odor removal. Look for fish sauce with a higher protein content.

Flavor Enhancement

While fish sauce is a familiar ingredient in Eastern cuisine, it can also add a unique touch to Western dishes, enhancing their flavor and making them more appealing.

Usage:

– Coffee Brewing: When brewing coffee with a phin filter, add 1-2 drops of fish sauce to the boiling water, then continue brewing as usual.

– Pizza: After rolling out the dough, brush a thin layer of fish sauce on the surface before adding other ingredients and baking as usual.

– Boiled Dishes: Instead of using plain water, add a few drops of fish sauce to the water. This will enhance the flavor and sweetness of the food.

Adding Depth to Dishes

Fish sauce, especially the thicker variety, has a unique aroma and a deep brown color. It can add depth and enhance the flavor of your dishes.

Usage:

– Marinade: Instead of using salt, try using fish sauce to marinate your meat and fish. This will help retain moisture and enhance the sweetness of the protein.

– Seasoning: When your dish is almost ready, add a few drops of fish sauce to soups and boiled dishes, or 1-2 spoons to stir-fries and braised dishes. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Your dish will be more flavorful.

Health Benefits

According to Eastern medicine, fish sauce has salty and sweet properties. It can help improve blood circulation, benefit the liver and kidneys, promote diuresis, and aid digestion. In cases of cold, wind stroke, muscle cramps, constipation, and anemia, fish sauce can be used as a treatment.

Usage:

– Energy Boost and Cold Relief: Drink 1-2 mouthfuls of fish sauce, approximately 15-30 ml.

– Abdominal Pain due to Cold: Consume 1-2 spoons of fish sauce, preferably warmed.

Note: When using fish sauce for health benefits, limit consumption to 15-30 ml per dose, once a day.

simple recipe for sweet and sour fish with garlic and chili that anyone can make at home.

Not just a healthy seasoning for Asians, fish sauce is also a special ingredient in Western cuisine, as featured in the Wall Street Journal.

For more information:

References: giadinh.vnexpress.net, suckhoedoisong.vn

Frequently asked questions

Fish sauce has a surprisingly diverse range of benefits. Firstly, it’s a rich source of essential amino acids, which are vital for maintaining and repairing body tissue. It also contains a good amount of B vitamins, particularly niacin, which is known to lower cholesterol and protect against heart disease. Additionally, fish sauce is a natural source of probiotics, promoting a healthy gut and boosting the immune system. Its high glutamate content enhances the flavor of dishes, and its unique umami taste can reduce the need for added salt in cooking.

Fish sauce is particularly beneficial for heart health due to its high niacin content. Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, has been shown to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels in the body. This helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Yes, fish sauce is a natural probiotic, which means it contains beneficial bacteria that support gut health. These probiotics can help balance the gut microbiome, aiding digestion and enhancing the absorption of nutrients. A healthy gut also contributes to a stronger immune system, as a significant portion of our immune function originates in the gut.

Fish sauce is renowned for its umami flavor, often described as the ‘fifth taste’ after sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. This savory taste is attributed to the high glutamate content in fish sauce. Glutamates enhance the perception of flavors, making dishes taste richer and more complex. As a result, fish sauce is often used to amplify the flavors in a dish without the need for excessive salt or other seasonings.

Fish sauce is an excellent source of essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. These amino acids are crucial for various bodily functions, including muscle repair and maintenance. Additionally, fish sauce provides a good amount of minerals like phosphorus, iron, and calcium, contributing to strong bones and overall health.